Egypt has reached a significant milestone in its telecommunications sector with the recent signing of the largest spectrum deal ever with local mobile network operators (MNOs). This historic agreement, finalised over the weekend, is valued at approximately US$3.5 billion and grants MNOs an additional 410 MHz of spectrum—equal to the total spectrum allocated in the previous 30 years since mobile services began in the country.
ICT Minister Amr Talaat noted that over the same three-decade span, the ICT sector has attracted around US$10 billion in investments in spectrum capacity and operating licenses. He highlighted that this new deal signifies a crucial advancement in the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s (MCIT) commitment to fostering a human-centric digital society.
Talaat elaborated that the spectrum made available through this agreement has increased the total accessible spectrum for companies to 550 MHz since 2019, marking a substantial increase in Egypt’s spectrum management history. He also mentioned that this expansion is set to support the upcoming launch of 5G services in June 2025, ensuring that networks are ready for future technological applications.
Emphasising the strategic importance of these spectrum allocation agreements, Talaat stated that they go beyond mere technical arrangements—they represent a long-term strategic decision that aligns the government’s vision with private-sector collaboration to transform Egypt’s telecom infrastructure.
In a ministry statement, Talaat expressed gratitude to MNOs for their ongoing investment and commitment to enhancing network capabilities and service efficiency. This partnership reflects a strong confidence in the Egyptian market and its regulatory framework.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the National Telecom Regulatory Authority’s team, led by Executive President Mohamed Shamroukh, for their dedication to fostering productive partnerships with mobile operators and creating a regulatory environment conducive to the growth of Egypt’s digital infrastructure.
